HARARE – As the world marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October, women’s rights advocate Felly Sibongile Mutsakani has called for greater solidarity in tackling health challenges facing women, especially in marginalised communities.
Mutsakani, who has been spearheading non-political community programmes, said her work has exposed the struggles many young girls face during their menstrual cycles due to lack of access to sanitary pads.
She has so far donated pads in remote areas including Buhera North, Headlands Chinyudze and Ngomahuru in Masvingo.
“It is heartbreaking that some of our girls are using tissues, while others even resort to cow dung stuffed in socks during their menstrual periods. This is not only undignified but also dangerous to their health,” she said. “If condoms are freely available, then sanitary pads should be treated as a basic necessity for women.”
In commemoration of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Mutsakani has launched the #Pink4Her campaign, urging citizens to donate sanitary pads, a pink T-shirt or just $5 to support women in disadvantaged areas.
“This initiative aligns with President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa’s call to leave no one and no place behind. Together, let us wear pink, donate and uplift women’s health in both spirit and action,” Mutsakani said.
She emphasised that just as breast cancer awareness calls for regular check-ups and early detection, menstrual health must also be prioritised to safeguard the dignity and well-being of every woman.
“Pink is not just a colour; it is a symbol of care, love and hope. Let us act. Pink for her,” she concluded.
